Stray Dog - Pariah Dogs

Pariah Dogs

The term 'pariah dog' has been used inconsistently, but is sometimes used synonymously, if incorrectly, with 'free-ranging dog'. Originally referring to the landrace of free-ranging dogs native to India and other Asian countries, it later came to be used for primitive natural breeds of dogs which have a similar physical appearance in all parts of the world in which they are found. The United Kennel Club has a category of dogs called the Sighthound & Pariah Group, which includes primitive dogs, distinctive local free-ranging landraces, breeds recently developed from naturally selected populations, and very ancient breeds.

Pariah dogs are canids that have kept close to the original form and have evolved with little or no purposeful human intervention. Pariahs in all countries have a very similar, typical morphology known as the "long-term pariah morphotype". This primal body design resembles the ancient breeds from which most other dog forms are derived. Typically, these canids have a wolf or fox-like appearance with wedge-shaped head and a pointed muzzle, almond eyes, erect ears, and a long, curved tail. Unlike modern breeds, pariah dogs have one annual estrus cycle.

Primitive or pariah dogs include the Aspin dog, a native Philippine breed, the Indian Pariah Dog, the Indian Santal dog, the Indonesian Bali Dog, the Korean Jindo Dog the South African Hottentot dog, and the American Carolina Dog.